Tamil Nadu government on Sunday revised its lockdown in accordance with the Unlock 4 guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday. Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami has in a new order scrapped the complete lockdown on Sundays in the state from September 1. Fresh relaxations are not applicable to any COVID-19 containment zones across Tamil Nadu where the lockdown has been extended till September 30.

In the state’s latest order, malls, clubs, hotels, parks can now reopen with 100% staff. However, cinema theatres will continue to remain closed. All shops across Tamil Nadu, including those in Chennai, can carry out operations till 8 pm. The state has also announced that intra-district bus services (both government and private) and Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation bus services will resume services starting September 1 by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). E-pass for travel between districts is no longer necessary. However, E-pass will be required to be collected from respective District Collector for those who are travelling to Ooty, Nilgiris, Kodaikanal. 

Inter-State railway services allowed only in select routes and no intra-State rail services until September 15. Suspension of sub-urban train services to continue. A new protocol for quarantine and testing will be issued for international and domestic air passengers and other State rail passengers. Chennai Airport would be allowed to receive 50-a-day (hitherto 25); however, status quo to continue in Coimbatore, Trichy, Madurai, Tuticorin and Salem airports. 

Schools, colleges, training centers, theatres, amusement parks, zoos, beaches, museums, parks, tourist spots, swimming pools including places which see a large attendance of people will continue to remain closed. All places of worship to reopen. Government offices to function with 100% staff from September 1. However, a Nodal Officer will be appointed to ensure safety norms. Banks and related services permitted to use 100% of their staff. Cine industry shooting allowed with 75 persons in a unit and no audience/spectators to be permitted.